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Norwegian Lundehund

Norwegian Lundehund is a small working breed from Norway also known as Norsk Lundehund, Norwegian Puffin Dog.

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Breed overview

Norwegian Lundehund is a small working breed from Norway also known as Norsk Lundehund, Norwegian Puffin Dog.

An ancient breed developed on remote islands in Norway specifically for hunting puffins and their eggs on steep, rocky cliffs. The name literally means 'puffin dog' in Norwegian.

People looking into Norwegian Lundehund usually prepare for High exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 13–16 lbs • 12–16 in.

Norsk LundehundNorwegian Puffin Dog

History and origin

Norwegian Lundehund is tied to originating from Norway, specifically Lofoten Islands, with sources often placing its development around 1600 CE.

Norwegian Lundehund is described here as placed in the working group and marked as an established breed.

An ancient breed developed on remote islands in Norway specifically for hunting puffins and their eggs on steep, rocky cliffs. The name literally means 'puffin dog' in Norwegian.

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Quick facts

Breed group
working
Size
Small
Origin country
Norway
Region
Lofoten Islands
Origin year
1600 CE
Weight
13–16 lbs
Height
12–16 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
2 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 2/5

Coat and classification

Norwegian Lundehund is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DoubleDenseRough

Norwegian Lundehund is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Six toes on each foot
  • Extremely flexible neck and shoulders
  • Ears that can fold shut completely
  • Reddish-brown to tan coat with white markings

What this breed is known for

  • An ancient breed developed on remote islands in Norway specifically for hunting puffins and their eggs on steep, rocky cliffs. The name literally means 'puffin dog' in Norwegian.
  • Possess several unique anatomical adaptations: six toes on each foot (instead of the normal four) for better grip on rocks; extremely flexible joints allowing them to turn their head backward along their spine and spread their forelegs to 90-degree angles; and ears that can close completely to keep out dirt and water.
  • Nearly extinct during World War II, with only six individuals remaining, all modern Lundehunds descend from these survivors. They remain one of the rarest dog breeds in the world, with perhaps 1,500-2,000 in existence.

Health and care notes

Norwegian Lundehund is noted here for High exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Intestinal Lymphangiectasia
  • Atrophic Gastritis
  • Protein Losing Enteropathy

Coat details: Double, Dense, Rough

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Norwegian Lundehund come from?

Norwegian Lundehund is closely associated with Norway, especially Lofoten Islands in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Norwegian Lundehund get?

Typical size details for Norwegian Lundehund on this page are 13–16 lbs, 12–16 in, 12–15 years.

What is the Norwegian Lundehund known for?

An ancient breed developed on remote islands in Norway specifically for hunting puffins and their eggs on steep, rocky cliffs. The name literally means 'puffin dog' in Norwegian.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Norwegian Lundehund reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.